Photo navigation

Rudy Gutierrezâ€”El Paso Times Thousands of people made the trek up Mount Crist Rey during the 74th Annual Pilgrimage Sunday. Matachine dance groups entertained at the base of the monument as people lighted candles and prayed below the 42.5 foot high limestone cross and base. A Mass was held below the base of the cross by El Paso Bishop Mark Seitz and Las Cruces Bishop Oscar Cantu. According to the official website of the Mount Cristo Rey Restoration Committee, the cross was completed by sculptor Urbici Soler in time for the Oct. 29, 1939 pilgrimage. The first cross was made of wood and placed atop the mountain in 1934, the website states.